P&O Ferries is supporting the protection of whales and dolphins in collaboration with marine conservation charity ORCA through a new initiative to monitor Irish Sea wildlife.
ORCA trains ordinary people to be 'citizen scientists'. They will collect valuable scientific data that can be used to help protect cetaceans: namely whales, dolphins and porpoises. This data plays a significant role in making marine life safer for future generations.
P&O Ferries will be giving ORCA volunteers access to their ships, to start monitoring the Irish Sea on their route from Cairnryan, Scotland to Larne, Northern Ireland. These teams will be monitoring one of the most productive stretches of water around the UK.
To prepare for this initiative, an ORCA Marine Mammal Surveyor came aboard the ferry operator's European Highlander and European Causeway, to carry out pilot surveys on the two ships.
Sarah Rosier, director of passenger sales for the ferry operator, said: "We're excited to be adding a new programme of citizen science as part of our partnership with ORCA on the Irish Sea, further supporting the journey towards monitoring and protecting this important habitat.
"Travelling by ferry offers a unique opportunity to observe the UK waters and we encourage passengers to see what they can spot on their journey and speak to our onboard team to find out more about the charity's wonderful work!"
Lucy Babey, head of science & conservation at ORCA, said: "The Irish Sea is a critical habitat and monitoring it is a vital part of protecting whales and dolphins around the UK. We're delighted to be building on our amazing partnership with P&O Ferries to understand better and safeguard these iconic animals. By studying whales and dolphins, we will be able to identify important hotspots and ensure that impactful protections are put in place."
The ferry operator has been supporting the charity for many years through ORCA OceanWatch, an annual survey during which crew take part in monitoring marine mammals.
